Explorations in Science series delves into the science behind gardening

NEWS RELEASE
Issued - February 2, 2009

ARDMORE, Okla. — With the increase in food costs and more awareness about the benefits of homegrown food, many people are developing home gardens.

Just in time for the 2009 gardening season, the Noble Foundation's scientific speaker series, Explorations in Science (formerly Public Lectures in Science), will kick off its spring season with a unique look at many common garden plants.

Marilyn Roossinck, Ph.D., Explorations in Science organizer and a professor in the Noble Foundation's Plant Biology Division, will present some little known scientific facts about those garden plants, such as why does rhubarb make your teeth feel funny?

"So many of the plants you find in an everyday garden hold a host of amazing characteristics. There is some amazing science locked within your tomatoes and carrots," Roossinck said. "I hope that even the most experienced gardener walks away with a few new tidbits of information that can improve their home garden."

Roossinck's presentation, which will be at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Ardmore Convention Center, is open to the public and offered at no cost, courtesy of the Noble Foundation. A reception will follow the event.

The Explorations in Science series will wrap up with Nanoscience: Evolution and Revolution, a presentation by Mike Santos and Matt Johnson of the Center for Semiconductor Physics in Nanostructures. Many people have heard of nanotechnology, but on Thursday, April 2, Santos and Johnson explain just what this new science can do and how it is changing medicine, computers and many other aspects of everyday life.

For additional information about Explorations in Science, contact the Noble Foundation at 580.224.6600.

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Photo:: Marilyn Roossinck, Ph.D.

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For media inquiries concerning the Noble Foundation, please contact:

J. Adam Calaway

jacalaway@noble.org

The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. (www.noble.org), headquartered in Ardmore, Okla., is a nonprofit organization conducting agricultural, forage improvement and plant biology research; assisting farmers and ranchers through educational and consultative agricultural programs; and providing grants to nonprofit charitable, educational and health organizations.